What achievements has Hailey Van Lith accomplished in her collegiate basketball career? What impact did her performance at TCU have on her draft position? How is her transition from Louisville to LSU characterized in the article? What records did Van Lith set during her time at TCU? What challenges did she face in adapting to her new team at LSU?
Hailey Van Lith has an impressive resume. She’s led three different teams to the Elite Eight in five years and picked up an Olympic bronze medal in the women’s 3×3 basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Games. Now, she can add WNBA player to the list. Van Lith was selected with the No. 11 pick in the 2025 WNBA draft by the Chicago Sky. The Sky previously selected Slovenian forward Ajša Sivka with the 10th overall pick.
Van Lith burst onto the scene at Louisville, where she played for three seasons (2020–2023). She led the Cardinals to the Elite Eight (2021, 2023) and the Final Four (2022) and picked up first-team All-ACC honors twice (2022, 2023) during her three-year stint. Van Lith transferred to the reigning national champion LSU Tigers in April 2023 for the 2023-24 season, but the fit didn’t pan out well. She experienced a dip in scoring volume and efficiency, posting a career-low shooting percentage (37.8%) and averaging 11.6 points per game, an eight-point drop from her 2022-23 season average in Louisville (19.7 pts).
Van Lith’s performance with the Tigers drew criticism, with some questioning if her game could translate to the WNBA, but the 23-year-old silenced critics during her renaissance season at TCU. Van Lith was named the Big 12’s Player and Newcomer of the Year after averaging 17.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, while shooting a career-high 45.9% from the field. She powered the Horned Frogs to their first regular-season title, first conference tournament title, and first Elite Eight appearance, while smashing program records. She set TCU’s single-season record for points scored (680 points) and single-season assist record (204 assists).
Here’s what Van Lith averaged in 173 career collegiate games — which marks an all-time women’s NCAA record for games played — followed by her 2024-25 stats at TCU in parenthesis:
- Points: 15.2 (17.9 ppg)
- Field goal percentage: 42.2% (career-high 45.2%)
- Rebounds: 4.1 (4.6 rpg)
- Assists: 3.4 (5.4 apg)
- Three point percentage: 33.8% (33.8%)
- Free-throw percentage: 84.0% (82.7%)
Hailey Van Lith Selected as No. 11 Pick by Chicago Sky in 2025 WNBA Draft
On a day that will undoubtedly be etched in the memory of basketball fans, Hailey Van Lith has officially entered the professional ranks as the No. 11 pick of the 2025 WNBA Draft, selected by the Chicago Sky. The 5-foot-7 point guard has long been heralded as one of the most electrifying players in women’s college basketball, and her selection marks a significant moment not only for Van Lith but for the WNBA as well.
A Rising Star
Hailey Van Lith’s journey to the professional stage is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and immeasurable talent. Originally from Wenatchee, Washington, Van Lith gained national attention during her time at Louisville, where she became a standout player and a fan favorite. Throughout her college career, she demonstrated her versatility on the court, capable of creating shots, facilitating plays, and executing critical plays under pressure.
At Louisville, Van Lith was known for her scoring ability, vision, and tenacity. She averaged impressive numbers during her time with the Cardinals, consistently putting up double-digit points and competing against some of the best defenses in the country. Her skill set, combined with an impressive work ethic, transformed her into a leader for her team, earning her numerous accolades and a reputation as a clutch performer in the most critical moments of the game.
The Chicago Sky Connection
The Chicago Sky, a team that has made significant strides in recent years, recognized the potential in Van Lith and selected her 11th overall in a strategic move that could elevate their roster. With veteran stars like Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley, the team has established a strong foundation, but integrating a young talent like Van Lith could be the key to contending for championships in the years to come.
The Sky’s head coach, James Wade, expressed excitement over Van Lith’s arrival, citing her competitive spirit and ability to perform in high-stakes situations as assets that will enhance the team’s dynamic. Wade stated, “Hailey’s a proven winner. Her experience at the college level and her ability to score from anywhere on the court make her an invaluable addition to our team. We’re thrilled that she’s joining us for this new chapter.”
Reactions and Expectations
The WNBA community reacted positively to Van Lith’s selection, with analysts and fans alike predicting a bright future for her in the league. Many experts believe that her skill set aligns perfectly with the modern game’s demands, emphasizing pace, space, and shooting ability. Her presence on the court will not only provide depth but also give the team a dynamic scorer to complement the established stars.
As she steps into her professional career, Van Lith faces the challenge of transitioning from college basketball to the intensity of the WNBA. However, those who have followed her career closely are confident that she is more than capable of rising to the occasion. Her track record of success and determination are indicative of someone who embraces challenges and strives for excellence.
The Impact on Women’s Basketball
Van Lith’s selection in the WNBA Draft is a milestone not just for her but also for the sport of women’s basketball as a whole. Her high-profile status during her college years has brought significant attention to women’s athletics, and her progression into the professional sphere could inspire a new generation of female athletes. The hope is that her success will continue to elevate the visibility of women’s sports and encourage increased investment in programs and opportunities for young girls involved in basketball.
Moreover, as the WNBA continues to grow, players like Van Lith are crucial in propelling the league forward. The expanding fan base, improving visibility on national platforms, and increasing financial investment all highlight the promising future that women’s professional basketball holds. The league’s ability to attract top-tier talent only strengthens its credibility and allure, making it a critical component of the broader basketball landscape.
Looking Ahead
As Hailey Van Lith prepares for her rookie season with the Chicago Sky, the anticipation surrounding her debut is palpable. Fans are eager to see how she will adapt her game to the professional level, while her teammates are likely looking forward to the creativity and energy she brings to the court. The Chicago Sky has always been known as a competitive team in the league, and Van Lith’s arrival signifies an exciting time for both the organization and its supporters.
In conclusion, Van Lith’s selection as the No. 11 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft represents a promising start to what is sure to be a remarkable career. With her exceptional talent and drive, she has the potential to impact the league significantly, blazing a trail for aspiring athletes while making her mark in one of the most prestigious basketball leagues in the world. The coming seasons will surely be exhilarating for both Van Lith and the Chicago Sky, as they look to chase the horizon of greatness together.
Hailey Van Lith was selected by the Chicago Sky as the 11th overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. This marked a significant milestone in her basketball career, showcasing her talent and potential as a player in the professional league. Known for her scoring ability and competitive nature, Van Lith will be looking to make an impact in the WNBA, contributing to her team’s success while establishing herself among the league’s top players. As she transitions to this new level of competition, her skills and determination will be key factors in her development and performance on the court.